Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

Vertigo

Core Physiotherapy and Pilates Studio offers a dedicated and systematic approach to assessing and addressing vertigo and dizziness.

Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

Understanding Vertigo & Dizziness

Vertigo involves sensations of spinning or feeling off-balance, often stemming from issues in the inner ear, where structures and nerves detect our body’s positioning. Conditions such as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, migraines, and low blood pressure are among the common causes of dizziness.

Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

The Inner Ear’s Role in Balance

Our inner ear contains fluid-filled canals and nerves that detect head movements. This data is sent to the brain, enabling adjustments in our body and vision to maintain balance. When this system functions well, head movements feel natural and steady. However, disruptions in the inner ear may lead to dizziness, unsteadiness, and vertigo.

Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

Common Vertigo Symptoms

Vertigo is frequently described as feeling like one is:

Spinning

Tilting

Swaying

Unbalanced

Pulled in one direction

These sensations can vary in duration, sometimes lasting minutes or hours, with symptoms that may come and go. Associated symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, abnormal eye movements (nystagmus), and headaches.

Physiotherapy Assessment for Vertigo & Dizziness

Our vestibular physiotherapists start with a comprehensive assessment tailored to each client’s experience. This involves:

Detailed History

Discussing dizziness onset, frequency, and intensity
Reviewing any relevant medical background

Physical Examination

Assessing cervical spine functionality
Examining positional changes and eye movement effects
Checking balance and stability

Note: While no GP referral is necessary, any prior medical test results will support our assessment process.

Understanding BPPV

BPPV is a prevalent cause of vertigo, originating from displaced crystals within the inner ear’s canals. These crystals disrupt the ear’s balance sensors, resulting in dizziness even with slight head movements. A targeted physiotherapy assessment identifies the specific canal affected, guiding a precise approach to support optimal recovery.

BPPV Treatment Approach

Treatment for BPPV includes performing controlled head movements to guide the displaced crystals back to their appropriate location. These maneuvers are often beneficial within one to two sessions, reducing vertigo symptoms and enhancing stability.

Vestibular Rehabilitation for Long-Term Balance Improvement

For clients experiencing prolonged vertigo, vestibular rehabilitation exercises may promote improved balance and reduced fall risk. This rehabilitation process focuses on:

Desensitising the vestibular system to reduce motion sensitivity

Supporting the brain and nervous system’s adaptation to any vestibular irregularities

Improving balance through progressive exercises

Rehabilitation exercises may include:

Habituation movements to reacquaint the body with movement

Eye retraining exercises to enhance coordination with head movements

Balance training to build steadiness

What to Bring to Your Appointment

A complete first appointment includes a thorough examination and tailored treatment approach. To ensure we gain the best understanding of your condition, please bring:

A list of current medications and their purposes

Any recent scan or test results

Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

Locations We Offer Physio for Vertigo

Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

Vertigo Resources

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Vertigo & Vestibular Course 2022

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Towards the end of May, a large group of our Physiotherapists undertook an amazing vestibular training course on treating vertigo […]

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June 20, 2022
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Do you or someone you know experience Vertigo? Recently one of our Physios, Chloe, who has a special interest in […]

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Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio

A Commitment to Quality Care

Core Physiotherapy and Pilates Studio offers a dedicated and systematic approach to assessing and addressing vertigo and dizziness. Located in Adelaide, we provide personalised care designed to support clients in regaining their comfort and stability.

References

Power Laura, Murray Katherine, Szmulewicz David J. Characteristics of assessment and treatment in Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) 08 April 2020